By Mallika Bhagat

Copyright timesnownews

With its glittering skyline, vibrant harbour, bustling street markets, and a mix of Chinese and colonial heritage, Hong Kong is one of Asia’s most dynamic destinations. From luxury shopping in Central to dim sum in Kowloon and the quietude of Lantau Island, the city offers something for every traveller. For Indian passport holders, the good news is that Hong Kong allows a 14-day visa-free entry, provided you complete a simple online Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR). Visa-Free Entry To Hong Kong For IndiansIndian nationals can continue to enjoy visa-free travel to Hong Kong for 14 days after successfully completing the Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR). PAR is free of charge and can be completed online.The process is automated—once you submit the required details, the system instantly informs you whether your registration is successful.The PAR is valid for six months. During this time, you can make multiple trips to Hong Kong, each for up to 14 days.You simply need to carry the printout of your PAR notification slip along with the same Indian passport used for registration. When To Apply For Hong Kong Pre-Arrival RegistrationIt’s recommended that Indian travelers apply 4 to 6 weeks before their trip to Hong Kong. If your PAR application is unsuccessful, or if you intend to stay in Hong Kong for more than 14 days, you must apply for a visa directly with the Hong Kong Immigration Department. Note: Chinese embassies and consulates do not accept Hong Kong visa applications from Indian nationals. Who Needs To Apply For Pre-Arrival Registration?All Indian nationals planning to visit or transit through Hong Kong (except for those in direct air transit without leaving the airport) must complete Pre-Arrival Registration. You can apply for PAR if you: Hold a valid Indian passport (at least six months validity)Intend to visit or transit through Hong Kong for a stay not exceeding 14 days Who Is Exempt From Pre-Arrival Registration?Certain Indian passport holders do not need PAR and can travel to Hong Kong visa-free under specific categories: Holders of valid Indian diplomatic or official passportsHolders of United Nations Laissez Passer traveling for official UN businessIndian nationals who have successfully enrolled in the e-Channel service for frequent visitors Hong Kong Visa Application For Indians (Beyond 14 Days)If you plan to stay in Hong Kong for more than 14 days or are travelling for purposes other than tourism (e.g., employment, study, or residence), you must apply directly to the Hong Kong Immigration Department. Validity Of Pre-Arrival RegistrationEach Pre-Arrival Registration is valid for six months.You can make multiple entries into Hong Kong during this period, staying up to 14 days per visit.Once the PAR validity expires, you must complete a new registration before travelling again.Also Read: Diljit Dosanjh Aura Tour 2025 In Hong Kong: Tickets, Venue & Travel Guide Tips For Indian Travellers Visiting Hong KongAlways carry the PAR notification slip printout and the same Indian passport used for registration. Apply early to avoid last-minute travel disruptions. If planning longer stays, apply for a Hong Kong visa instead of relying on PAR. Remember: PAR is mandatory even if you’re just transiting through Hong Kong (except direct air transit without leaving the airport). Travel News – Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.